Onkyo TX-RZ50
Score: 81/100
Denon AVR-S970H Black
Score: 78/100Rankings
The Onkyo TX-RZ50 is a 9.2-channel receiver offering 120 W per channel, Dirac Live calibration, and THX Certified Select for high-performance audio. Its high idle power consumption and fan noise can be drawbacks for energy-sensitive or quiet-environment users. It excels in medium-size home theaters and gaming setups requiring powerful, calibrated sound.
The Denon AVR-S970H is a 7.2-channel receiver offering 90 W per channel, 8K video and robust gaming features. Its size and limited pre-amp channels are trade-offs for the higher performance. Ideal for medium-sized rooms and gamers who want HEOS streaming and Audyssey calibration.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
7best | 6 | |
2best | 2best | |
120 Wbest | 90 W | |
| ↓ lower better | 850 Wbest | — |
| ↓ lower better | 0.1 Wbest | 0.5 W |
3 yearsbest | 2 years | |
| ↓ lower better | 435.1 mm | 429.26 mmbest |
| ↓ lower better | 201.68 mmbest | 243.84 mm |
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| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Ports(1) | ||
HDMI Inputs | 7 | 6 |
Audio(2) | ||
Supported Audio Formats | PCM, DSD, Dolby Digital, DTS, DTS‑ES, DTS 96/24 | Dolby TrueHD; Dolby Atmos; Dolby Atmos Music; DTS:X; DTS HD Master; DTS Neural:X; DTS Virtual:X; Multichannel Stereo |
Channel Configuration | 9.2 | 7.2 |
Power(2) | ||
Power Output (per channel, 8 Ω) (W) | 120 W | 90 W |
Standby Power Consumption (W) | 0.1 W | 0.5 W |
Connectivity(2) | ||
HDMI Version | HDMI 2.1 | 2.1 |
Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth | unspecified |
Features(1) | ||
Video Support (e.g., 4K/8K) | 8K/60, 4K/120 | 8K/60Hz; 4K/120Hz; HDR |
General(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 3 years | 2 years |
Build & Design(4) | ||
Width (mm) | 435.1 mm | 429.26 mm |
Height (mm) | 201.68 mm | 243.84 mm |
Depth (mm) | 398.27 mm | 520.7 mm |
Weight (kg) | 14.01 kg | 9.48 kg |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the TX-RZ50 for its distortion-free output, expansive frequency response, and low-jitter processing, highlighting the value of built-in Dirac Live and THX certification. They also note minor drawbacks such as measurable multitone jitter, a relatively high idle power draw, and some fan-related noise under heavy use.
Everyday users appreciate the receiver's punchy, detailed sound, the ease of setting up Atmos and gaming, and the reliable multi-room streaming. Recurring complaints focus on occasional HDMI handshake glitches, app control hiccups, and audible fan noise during prolonged high-power sessions.
Professional reviewers commend the AVR-S970H for its robust Class AB amplification, comprehensive 8K video handling, and effective Audyssey room correction, positioning it as a refined choice for medium-sized rooms. However, they note the absence of DTS:X Pro and the 7-channel processing limit as drawbacks compared to higher-end competitors.
Everyday users generally praise the receiver's sound quality, especially the "nice sound" comment, and value the easy HEOS streaming and intuitive app setup. Recurring concerns focus on the heavy packaging and the unit's bulkier footprint when antennas are raised.
“nice sound”
